Palenque

Palenque Mexico is an impressive Mayan site in Chiapas, known for its well-preserved ruins in the jungle.

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Mysterious Mayan ruins in the jungle

Palenque in Chiapas is one of the most impressive Mayan sites in Mexico. The Palenque Zona Arqueologica, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, impresses with buildings such as the Temple of the Sun and the Temple of Inscriptions, where the famous Palenque Tomb Slab was discovered. These ruins offer a unique insight into the fascinating culture and architecture of the Maya.

Highlights

in Palenque

Admire the impressive Mayan ruins in the middle of the jungle
Explore the Pyramid of the Fortune Teller and the Governor's Palace
Discover the artistic reliefs and inscriptions
Enjoy nature on the hiking trails around the site
Visit the nearby waterfalls of Agua Azul and Misol-Ha

Worth seeing

Palenque in Chiapas is one of the most fascinating Mayan sites in Mexico. In the largest pyramid, which is over 25 metres high and has five entrances, lies the tomb of the great ruler Pakal. This was discovered in 1952 and, with its mighty stone slabs weighing over five tonnes, is one of the most important finds of its time.

The Temple of the Sun and numerous other ornately decorated temples line the paths through the Palenque Zona Arqueologica. Their inscriptions tell the story of the city. A small, picturesque waterfall on the grounds adds to the impressive backdrop, even though swimming in it is prohibited.

Popular activities in Palenque

Explore archaeological ruins

Visit the impressive temples and palaces of Palenque, including the famous temple pyramid of Pakal.

Visit Agua Azul

Visit the impressive blue waterfalls of Agua Azul, which are only a short drive from Palenque.

Jungle hikes

Explore the surrounding jungle trails that lead to hidden ruins and breathtaking views.

Visit the Museo de Palenque

Find out about the history of the Mayan culture and the artefacts from the surrounding area in the local museum.

Misol-Ha waterfalls

Take a trip to the nearby Misol-Ha waterfalls, where you can swim and enjoy nature.

Enjoy local cuisine

Sample the delicious local cuisine in the restaurants of Palenque, with traditional dishes and specialities from the region.

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History of the place and interesting facts

Palenque is one of the most famous archaeological sites of the Mayan civilisation and is located in the state of Chiapas, Mexico. The history of Palenque dates back to the 3rd century AD, when the city became an important political and cultural centre of the Maya. During its heyday, around the 7th century, Palenque reached its greatest power and influence under the reign of King Pakal the Great. The ruins that can be visited today include impressive temples, palaces and the famous tomb of Pakal, which offers valuable insights into Mayan life and beliefs. The city was abandoned in the 10th century and hidden in the jungle until it was rediscovered in the 18th century.

History of Mexico

Culture of Mexico City

The culture of Palenque is deeply rooted in the Mayan tradition and can be seen in the impressive architecture and ornate reliefs that adorn the walls of the temples. The city was a centre for art, science and religion, and many of the surviving inscriptions provide information about the political and religious practices of the Maya. The indigenous people lived in a highly agrarian society and practised agriculture to secure their food supply. Today, the cultural heritage of the Maya remains alive in the traditional practices and customs of the indigenous peoples of Chiapas, who continue to preserve the language, art and spirituality of their ancestors.

Culture Mexico

Interesting fact about Palenque

An interesting fact about Palenque is that the city contains inscriptions that are over 1,500 years old and are among the best preserved in the Maya world. These hieroglyphic texts, found in the temples and on the stones of the site, offer valuable insights into the history, politics and religion of the Mayan civilisation. Of particular note is the tomb of King Pakal, whose magnificent sarcophagus is decorated with ornate reliefs depicting his reign and the afterlife.

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Places of interest in the neighbourhood

Misol-Ha

An impressive waterfall that plunges into a natural lagoon and provides a picturesque backdrop for swimming and relaxing.

Misol-Ha

Agua Azul

These breathtaking waterfalls, known for their bright blue pools, offer numerous opportunities for swimming and photography.

Agua Azul

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A charming colonial city on the Gulf coast of Mexico, with well-preserved fortress walls, colourful buildings and a rich maritime history.

Campeche

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